Products
Ivy extracts are included in finished drug products and are available, for example, as syrups, drops, suppositories, and effervescent tablets. Dried ivy leaves are available in pharmacies and drugstores in open form. However, tea preparation is not very common.
Stem plant
Common ivy L. of the Aralia family is a perennial and evergreen root climber native to Europe.
Medicinal drug
The medicinal drug used is the ivy leaves (Hederae folium), which are the dried, whole or cut leaves of L. Harvested in spring or summer, liquid and dry extracts are prepared from the drug mainly with ethanol.
Ingredients
The ingredients of ivy leaves include:
- Triterpene saponin glycosides: hederasaponins, e.g., hederacoside C.
- Caffeic acid derivatives
- Flavonoids
- Polyacetylenes
Effects
Ivy extracts (ATC R05CP02) are believed to have expectorant, cough-irritant, antimicrobial, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and bronchodilator properties.
Indications
For the treatment of productive cough with sputum.
Dosage
According to the package insert. Medicines are usually taken one to three times a day (depending on the preparation).
Contraindications
Ivy is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity. Full precautions can be found in the Instructions for Use.
Interactions
Combination with antitussive agents that relieve cough irritation, such as codeine or dextromethorphan, is not recommended because of the risk of secretory congestion.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects rarely include allergic reactions and gastrointestinal discomfort.
